Shaggy

The cliché 'unity is strength' became very meaningful and highly relevant when we heard about the strategies and deliberate mobilisation of princes, princesses and paupers that led to Barack Obama's victory at the polls. This is primarily because we are all aware that it was the collective effort of those who shared a common vision that led to the historic moment.

Everyone, in my opinion, including those beyond the geographical borders of America, was invited to play a role, directly or indirectly. The role may have been as a member of the campaign team or just among the many persons who wore an Obama T-shirt. In spite of the nature of the role, everyone felt that his or her role was significant and we all felt proud when the goal was achieved.

Over the festive season, I was forced to reflect on the kind deeds of Shaggy, the well known reggae artiste whom I have come to respect and admire. To take it even further, I now see him as the 'singing Obama', who, through his talent and charisma, has been able to mobilise others to respond to a just and worthy cause. Jamaicans all over the world are now responding to the need to support Shaggy's initiative of assisting the Bustamante Hospital for Children. Shaggy reported in a television interview that the common Jamaican is responding to his tag line "save a life", in spite of the global recession. He further stated that members of corporate Jamaica have made pledges even though they did not budget for the benefit concert this year. These same persons have further pledged their support, in spite of tight budgets.

commendable project

Shaggy has even touched the heart of the 'man on the street'. He has gotten offers from Jamaicans who, by virtue of their financial standings, could only assist with the parking of patrons' cars at the concert. A man whose trade is upholstery has also pledged to cover the chairs at the hospital.

Who would have thought that Shaggy's veranda meetings would have led to this highly commendable project for charity at the national level? Who would have thought that the planning, organisation and mobilisation of this event could have been achieved in approximately two months? Who would have thought that a Jamaican reggae artiste would have made such personal sacrifice for the well-being of the children at the hospital? The lyrical content of his theme song is a testament to what can happen when we make a concerted effort to pull together to make our world a better place.

US President-elect Barack Obama.

Like Obama, I am sure Shaggy was singing the tune, "Yes we can!". The life of the politician and that of the singer are not entirely different. After all, they both have the power to influence people, and in both circumstances, the influence can be far-reaching and we will never know where it will stop.

It is my hope that Shaggy will be able to influence others in the music industry to commit to something significant and positive to change the course of a life. This can only happen when we all come to the realisation that each of us has a role to play.

Indeed, America will never be the same because of the "global leader" Obama and the Bustamante Children's Hospital will never be the same because of "the Man," Shaggy.

Carol Blanchard can be contacted at walkiest@yahoo.com.